Posts Tagged ‘yoga’

The Yoga and Meditation Open Day for 2018 is on 7 July, Saturday, 10am – 3pm

What will I get from the Yoga and Meditation Open Day?

The Yoga and Meditation Open Day will give you and your family an incredible experience of activities and fun in the Hare Krishna tradition. You will have the opportunity to explore the amazing Bhaktivedanta Manor in a comfortable and friendly environment with lot of activities to take part in. The manor was gifted by George Harrison of the Beatles in 1973 and is home to the George Harrison Garden, Woodland Walk, the biggest cow protection and working oxen centre in the UK, organic farm, a magnificent Krishna Temple, Meditation rooms. And what’s more… we have a special Yoga and Meditation Theme this year which means you can get FREE Yoga and Meditation lessons! Apart from that, you will have an opportunity to:

Join in with our special yoga and meditation sessions FREE

Get a tour of the Mock-Tudor mansion gifted by the Beatles FREE

Feed the Oxen, Cows and the Calves

Go on an Ox-cart ride FREE

Try some face-painting

Decorate your hands with some Henna designs

Discover your future with ancient Indian palm-reading

Have some fun on the bouncy castle (kids only)

Try some amazing cuisines, snacks and sweets

Discover a traditional eastern culture with the Temple and Meditation rooms FREE

Learn about the history of the Hare Krishna movement FREE

Meet the monks and ask questions FREE

Relish a sumptuous veggie lunch FREE

There are many more things to do and we can’t list them all here!

How much do I pay?

Entry the the Family Fun Day is FREE and so are a lot of activities. Some activities require just a small charge to pay for the items used.

Can I just turn up?

Yes, you can! Please do register with the registration gazebo to claim your free access to a lot of activities on site. If you’d like to be informed of future events similar to these, then just fill out this form and we’ll keep you updated!

Is there free parking?

Yes, and there’s lots.. you can bring a few cars.

What time is the FREE lunch?

The free lunch is at 3pm.

Can I bring my dog?

Although dogs are generally welcome on lead on the grounds during regular days, we request you not to bring your dog due to the number people present and any concerns they may have.

How long can I spend?

All day if you like. But a tour would take about 20 minutes, and then it depends what activities you want to take part in. We recommend a couple of hours at least to get the full experience!

What time is the yoga?

All day! Please bring a yoga mat if you have one, otherwise we’ll have one for you here. Due to the limitation of the size of the rooms, we’ll only be able to take the first 15 yoga enthusiasts!

What should I do if I have further questions?

Please click the link below to get in touch with us 🙂 You can even use this link to get travelling directions. And if you’re really really stuck, you can call Radha Govinda on 07903212291

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PLEASE LOOK UP TRAVELLING DIRECTIONS BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. THERE IS NO ACCESS THROUGH THE VILLAGE. THE ONLY ACCESS IS VIA HILFIELD LANE.

Here’s a quick (and really lousy) video we made from last year’s open day. (We need a good video editor if you’d like to volunteer!)

Feel like you want to experience something a bit more than the everyday ordinary?

Enter a world where every day is a new adventure into the spiritual realm!

You can always pop into your local Krishna Temple to catch a glimpse of how seekers of spirituality have been leading a spiritual lifestyle where day to day activities transform into a spiritual experience. And what’s more? Now you can even join in and celebrate with us! Here are a few events we host for everyone who want to fan that spiritual spark:

Yoga Retreats, Saturday once a month: A wholesome spiritual five a day retreat – Yoga for the body, Mantra meditation for the soul, Delicious meal for the tummy, Drumming and mindfulness for the mind, and Spiritual wisdom for a balanced lifestyle.

Music and Meditation, Saturday once a month: An evening of music, mantra chants and meditation, stories, comedy, drama, quiz and a meal. Come and share the love!

Wanna know more?

Just come along on a Wednesday evening, or if you have queries contact us via this form and we’ll get back to you.

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I agree to be contacted with the above-stated information (Sorry, GDPR stuff!)

IQ (Intelligence Quotient) tests are famous for assessing logical, mathematical and linguistic skills. We all wish we were in that top bracket of Mensa elite who have an IQ in excess of 140 – unfortunately only 0.5% of the population make it! Developed intelligence empowers one to gather, process and analyse information effectively. The intelligent can think in abstract ways and learn from their experiences. Despite this, history shows that the intelligentsia are not always the most successful, happy and influential people in the world.

Psychologists and neuroscientists are increasingly talking about the need for Emotional Quotient (EQ). Those with high EQ’s are emotionally balanced, able to maintain composure in the chaos of life, and great at relating with people in appropriate and inspiring ways. EQ empowers the successful utilisation of IQ – people act irrationally when volatile emotions hijack their mental state. Thus, EQ measures the human side of life and our interactions with the immediate environment.

While IQ and EQ help us to function in our present situations, SQ (Spiritual Quotient) is all about ‘thinking out of the box.’ People often come to the point where they begin to question life, the universe and everything – who am I, why am I here, what is my purpose, what should I strive for, and what will make me happy? By exercising their SQ an individual can discover deeper meaning, purpose and direction in life. Often, we are busily engaged in chasing things without seriously considering whether they are necessary, fulfilling and really adding value. Our daily endeavours are usually focused on asking the question ‘how,’ but SQ is all about asking the question ‘why.’

We hope this collection of articles will stimulate your SQ and offer some ‘food for thought’ in a world that (consciously or unconsciously) yearns for fresh perspectives and newer paradigms.

For the next term we will examine several elements of the traditional yoga of eight limbs. We will explore in detail the dynamics of the Ashtanga Vinyasa Primary series, focusing on the foundational Suryanamaskar and standing postures with emphasis on bandhas, movement with breath and dristhis. There will be some inclusion of further postures according to ability when the sequence of initial posture can be practiced from memory. We will also examine in detail the Yamas and Niyamas, the first two of the eight limbs, by considering various characters from the Bhagavat Purana and Mahabharata that highlight the value of these ethical guidelines.

Preparation for class:
· You can bring your own mats and blocks, although some are available for general use
· Avoid eating before the class, particularly large meals
· Wear clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in
· If you have any serious injuries or health conditions, please check with your doctor before attending class and inform the teacher in advance

About Patricia Rafferty
Patricia began practicing yoga in Northern Ireland in 1991 with Norma Duffield, and received her yoga teacher training qualification from the Yoga Fellowship of Northern Ireland in 2001. After 8 years in an ashrama, she gained an in-depth understanding of yoga philosophy and psychology, mantra meditation, vegetarian cooking and Ayurveda. She has studied with teachers from various yoga traditions including Mira Metha, Ana Forrest, Hamish Hendry and John Scott, and has taught in Northern Ireland, America, India and England, working with people of all ages and levels of practice.

Maintaining a regular practice has allowed Patricia to develop a deep, practical understanding of the therapeutic nature of yoga and the endless ways it can be adapted. She empowers others to experience the healing energy of focused mind, breath and body work within a safe and relaxed environment.

Introductory Course for Women

This is a three month residential course, starting January 5th 2015 ending March 31st 2015.

Learn Simple Living, High Thinking
Experience devotional lifestyle at Bhaktivedanta Manor amongst devotees and likeminded students. Learn to built up a regular sadhana (devotional practise) by attending the daily morning and evening program in the temple room.

We offer a variety of service engagements as, temple cleaning, assisting in the kitchen, food distribution, farming, milking cows, outdoor congregational chanting, book distribution and home programs etc.

1: The Existence of God
2: The Search for the Absolute Truth / 3 pramanas / 4 defects
3: “You Are Not the Material Body”
4: Faith
5: The Three Aspects of the Absolute Truth
6: Krishna: The Supreme Absolute Truth / The Five Primary Rasas
7: The Three Energies of the Lord
8: The Creation / Universal Time
9: Perceiving Krishna in His Creation
10: The Three Modes of Material Nature / the Law of Karma / Re-incarnation
11: Death & Liberation

C) Vaisnava Culture Covers:

1: ISKCON’s Cultural Identity
2: The Vedas
3: The Four Varnas
4: The Four Ashrams
5: Respect: The Basis of Civilisation
6: Ethics and Morality
7: Relating to Devotees with Due Respect
8: Relating to seniors, juniors, and Peers
9: Receiving a Guest
10: Fellowship and Association
11: Three Levels of Devotees
12: Offences to the Vaishnavas
13: Twenty-Six Qualities of a Devotee

Fees
A nominal charge of £ 150 applies for the basic cost of study material, accommodation, food, and devotional clothing.

Concessions or sponsorships can be available for those with limited resources.

“If you read Srimad Bhagavatam then immediately, you will realize God”

– His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

The Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhāgavata Purāṇa) is referred to as the spotless Purana, which is “directed toward bringing about a revolution in the impious lives of this world’s misdirected civilization (SB 1.5.11).” It is replete with conversations and pastimes that are deeply instructive for our lives, thus providing a lifetime of reading, re-reading, study and contemplation.

It is not without reason that Rupa Goswami explains in his Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu that even a small attachment for Srimad Bhagavatam can arouse devotional ecstasy (bhava-bhakti), even in a neophyte.

It is often advised however that only when studying the Srimad Bhagavatam do we really gain a grasp of the key personalities, events and lessons that need to be learnt from this paramahamsa-samhita. Indeed, Srila Prabhupada often explains that these books need to be studied in the association of devotees. This “Bhagavatam Series” provides a chance to do just that. In these sessions, we will look into some of the fundamental pastimes in short, digestible chunks, with devotees.

Each pastime will consist of 4 three-hour sessions. They will be interactive and thought-provoking, encouraging learners to think for themselves about the practical application of the text to everyday life. The insights and association of fellow students will also add a unique flavour to the classes. Participants will have the opportunity to look at Srila Prabhupada’s purports and the various pastimes from different viewpoints. Through the power of the Bhagavatam, the sincere participant will no doubt walk away inspired and enlivened.

Please note that it is not necessary to attend Part 1 in order to do Part 2, or Part 2 in order to access Part 3, and so on. All Parts of The Bhagavatam Series are standalone.

Part 2 – Krsna and His devotees (Chapters 7-9)
4 lessons
Study the aftermath of the Kuruksetra war as Asvatthama tries for revenge, the timeless wisdom of Queen Kunti as she teaches us how to really deal with adversity, and the sagacious words of grandsire Bhisma as he leaves the world.Part 2 – Completed

Part 3 – Krsna and His Associates End Their Earthly Pastimes (Chapters 13-15 + Canto 11 Chapters 1, 30 & 31)
4 lessons
Delve into the renunciation of Dhṛtarāṣṭra as he finally leaves the palace for the forest, the untimely departure of Lord Krsna, and the subsequent retirement of the Pandavas. This Part 3 also looks at the 11th Canto, which gives us deeper insights into the intriguing circumstances surrounding the departure of the Lord.Course Dates: Sunday 24th May, 7th, 21st & 28th June 2015 (4 weeks) Note: 31st May is Snana Yatra & 14th June is Ratha YatraTime: 2pm – 5pm (please note afternoon timings)Course Fee: £30

Name(s) of Attendee(s)

Part 4 – Maharaja Parīkṣit & Kali Yuga (Chapters 16-19)
4 lessons
Study the entrance of Kali into the world, how the King was unduly cursed by a young brahmana boy, and Pariksit’s preparations for death as Sukadeva Goswami enters the assembly at an opportune moment.Course Dates: To be confirmedTime: 2pm – 5pmCourse Fee: £30

Name(s) of Attendee(s)

Please note, there is no assessment involved in these sessions.

This is essentially a Bhakti Vaibhava-‘lite’ course. The structure makes the study of the Bhagavatam more accessible for those unable to commit to a lengthy period of study and regular assessments as is the case with the official Bhakti Vaibhava course. Thus it gives participants breaks of a few weeks in between the various Parts. A strong understanding of the Bhagavad-gita is recommended in order to be able to keep pace with the lessons. Bhakti Shastri is a plus. For those less familiar with the philosophy of Krishna consciousness, the Bhagavat Life course is more appropriate.

Further information about dates will be published soon.

Participants can sign up to each individual Part as they go along, or enroll for all 4 parts together for a discounted price of £100:

You can sign up to this course by following the Paypal links above, or at the Manor reception (call 01923 851000 and make clear what you are signing up to). You will then receive e-mail confirmation of your place on the course.

Prabhupada would often write “I hope this meets you in good health” in his letters. We know we are not the body, but how do we ensure that we keep the body, which in another one of Krishna’s instruments, in a good condition so it doesn’t become an obstacle for us while we render service?

By the end of this seminar, you will:

Understand the 3 Ayurvedic body types and their differences

Know what types of foods work for your body type

Know what types of exercise work optimally for your body type

Understand how regulation helps keep the body and mind in a healthy state

Introductory Course for Women

This is a three month residential course starting on the 7th April 2014 and finishing on the 30th June 2014.

Spiritualised Living
Learn simple living, high thinking, experience the spirituality of the temple morning program, learn to play Indian musical instruments, meet other students, temple devotees and make new friends and so much more.

The Bhaktin Program is to gain new skills and experience.

Classes and workshops will be held 4 days a week with accompanying general temple services i.e. temple cleaning, support in the kitchen and assisting a number of festivals.

And on other days acquire new or improve upon your existing skills and experience in the following areas; book distribution, home visit programs, street procession (Harinam), food distribution, farming and milking cows, cooking and deity services etc.

Fees
A nominal charge of £150 will be asked for the course to cover basic costs of study materials, clothing etc. Concessions or sponsorships can be available for those with limited resources.

The syllabus
The syllabus of the Introductory Course / Bhaktin Course is as follows:
Students will take part in general temple service duties and festivals together with their classroom studies.

1: The Existence of God
2: The Search for the Absolute Truth / 3 pramanas / 4 defects
3: “You Are Not the Material Body”
4: Faith
5: The Three Aspects of the Absolute Truth
6: Krishna: The Supreme Absolute Truth / The Five Primary Rasas
7: The Three Energies of the Lord
8: The Creation / Universal Time
9: Perceiving Krishna in His Creation
10: The Three Modes of Material Nature / the Law of Karma / Re-incarnation
11: Death & Liberation

C) Vaisnava Culture Covers:

1: ISKCON’s Cultural Identity
2: The Vedas
3: The Four Varnas
4: The Four Ashrams
5: Respect: The Basis of Civilisation
6: Ethics and Morality
7: Relating to Devotees with Due Respect
8: Relating to seniors, juniors, and Peers
9: Receiving a Guest
10: Fellowship and Association
11: Three Levels of Devotees
12: Offences to the Vaishnavas
13: Twenty-Six Qualities of a Devotee

To commend success in completing the course, students will be awarded Introductory Course certificates.

Please note there are limited places on this course and there is an application form to be completed and returned to us.

Fees
A nominal charge of £150 will be asked for the course to cover basic costs of study materials, clothing etc. Concessions or sponsorships can be available for those with limited resources.

Explore a wide range of postures which allow you to enter into the therapeutic and invigorating experience of Yoga that is accessible to all practitioners. Increase strength and flexibility while releasing tension through foundational poses

Gain a practical experience of the immense benefits of conscious breathing and breath control. This timeless element of Yoga brings deep relaxation and allows the mind to become more calm and peaceful

Explore various lifestyle choices that can promote increased relaxation and health

Regardless of age or physical condition, Yoga can help everyone to feel more relaxed and rejuvenated

Preparation for class:
· You can bring your own mats and blocks, although some are available for general use
· Avoid eating before the class, particularly large meals
· Wear clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in
· If you have any serious injuries or health conditions, please check with your doctor before attending class and inform the teacher in advance

About Patricia Rafferty
Patricia began practicing yoga in Northern Ireland in 1991 with Norma Duffield, and received her yoga teacher training qualification from the Yoga Fellowship of Northern Ireland in 2001. After 8 years in an ashrama, she gained an in-depth understanding of yoga philosophy and psychology, mantra meditation, vegetarian cooking and Ayurveda. She has studied with teachers from various yoga traditions including Mira Metha, Ana Forrest, Hamish Hendry and John Scott, and has taught in Northern Ireland, America, India and England, working with people of all ages and levels of practice.

Maintaining a regular practice has allowed Patricia to develop a deep, practical understanding of the therapeutic nature of yoga and the endless ways it can be adapted. She empowers others to experience the healing energy of focused mind, breath and body work within a safe and relaxed environment.

“The two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.”

All of us have questions about life. Who are we? Why are we here? Why do bad things happen to good people? What happens after death? But living in such a fast paced world we run out of time to eat, drink and even sleep let alone finding time to explore our deeper thoughts. Explore focuses on the key themes of The Bhagavad-gita which is universally renowned as the crown jewel of India’s spiritual wisdom. Spoken by Sri Krishna, to His intimate friend, Arjuna, the Bhagavad-gita’s 700 concise verses provide a definitive guide to the science of yoga and self-realization.

In 4 sessions, grasp the core themes of the Bhagavad-gita and how they apply to the modern individual. Partake in dynamic seminars, group discussions and guided meditations. We aim to give you a framework which will aid you to personally cultivate strong spiritual habits.

Course Modules
1. What is Success?
2. Who is God?
3. Karma: Good or Bad?
4. Art of Living